Ham Radios

There's no denying it. The Baofeng UV-5R is one of the most popular and prolific handheld two way radios in the world. It's no wonder, really. It's extremely compact, feature packed, and extremely affordable, or, to put it bluntly, it's really, really cheap. A power packed dual bander at a powerfully low price, the UV-5R is without a doubt the preferred choice of many radio operators across the globe.

Of course, with high popularity comes high demand. With such demand comes the challenge of keeping the UV-5R in stock and available to ship same day to our customers. Usually this is not a problem, but the current worldwide pandemic has created an unusual situation for retailers in general, and it affects our warehouse operations as well.

Due to the sudden interest in personal preparedness during the coronavirus emergency, we've experienced an uptick in demand for certain makes and models of two way radios by the general public. As such, some of our most popular radios may be in short supply or temporarily out of stock. The Baofeng UV-5R is one of those affected models.

But there's absolutely no reason to panic, or panic buy. On the contrary, we have plenty of other radios in stock and available that fit the bill. While some may not be at the same price point as the UV-5R, they are certainly capable of powerful, reliable operation on the same bands and frequencies as the Baofeng. Not only that, these models are of equal or higher build specifications for greater ruggedness and better durability, adding greater value for the price!

For instance, the TYT TH-UV88 is a dual band analog radio that matches the UV-5R in almost every respect, even down to the built-in LED flashlight. Some even call it a potential UV-5R killer. Sure, it costs just a little more than the UV-5R, but it has something the UV-5R doesn't, a more rugged and durable housing. It also has a real one year manufacturer warranty from TYT, something that Baofeng claims to offer, but in most cases makes it all but impossible for the end user to actually redeem.

Then there's a great selection from Wouxun. These are powerful dual band radios with exceptional features and capabilities, some of which are not available at all on the Baofeng UV-5R. Does the UV-5R have a full color LCD display? No? Well, it's a standard feature on many Wouxun models. Can the bands be freely set in the UV-5R for VHF TX and UHF RX or UHF TX and VHF RX on the same channel? Well, you can do it on the Wouxun KG-UV6D. Does the UV-5R have cross band repeat capability? The Wouxun KG-UV8D does, and so do several other Wouxun models, including the KG-UV8E, and it's a tri-bander!

Yes, the Baofeng UV-5R is Part 90 type accepted for business use, and some of the other models mentioned are not. But some of them are. And if you need a radio specifically for business use, why settle for a cheap little transceiver when you can get much more durability, and in turn, greater ROI with more rugged Part 90 type accepted radios specifically designed for business use? Icom, Motorola and other manufacturers offer many models that fit the bill. And, if you really need to buy on price alone, Why not consider the Olympia P324? This is a great little radio for business applications. It's Part 90 type accepted, and it's an incredibly inexpensive buy. Note: at the time this article was written, it's also on sale!

We could go on and on, but you get the point. Why be disappointed that the UV-5R is out of stock, when there are so many other great radios to choose from that are also a bargain, and are better radios, to boot?

So the UV-5R is out of stock? No problem. Just upgrade. Considering all this, when you upgrade your purchase from a UV-5R to another model, you aren't settling for less, you're getting something more. It's a win-win for you. And that's a smarter buy.

Here are some great alternatives to the Baofeng UV-5R:

*The 2M/70cm version has been approved by the FCC. Type accepted for Part 90, FCC ID WVTWOUXUN07. The 2M/1.25M and 2M/6M versions are for amateur use only.

Want to learn more about the TYT-TH-UV88? Listen to an in-depth discussion about this powerful and inexpensive alternative to the UV-5R in Episode 149 of The Two Way Radio Show podcast!

The VGC VR-N7500 is an innovative new mobile amateur two way radio with Bluetooth® connectivity. What makes it so exciting and unique? You can fully control, program and update it using its smartphone app, available for Android or iOS. the Android version of the app is full featured and easy to use, but what about the iOS version?

In this video, Danny from Buy Two Way Radios shows you how to install the app on your iOS phone or tablet and use it to control and program your VGC VR-N7500 mobile amateur radio.

The VGC VR-N7500 is an exciting new mobile amateur radio with Bluetooth® connectivity for full control through its smartphone app. However, the app is currently not listed in the Google Play app store, so the initial setup can seem a little confusing. So, how do you find, install and use the VGC VR-N7500 Android app with your radio?

In this video, Danny from Buy Two Way Radios shows you how to install the app on your android smartphone and connect it to your VGC VR-N7500 mobile amateur radio.

In this video, Danny from Buy Two Way Radios introduces the new smartphone controlled, Bluetooth® enabled VR-N7500 mobile amateur radio from VGC.

Now, VGC is not a very well known brand in the US ham radio market, but they have been around internationally for a while. VGC is an acronym for Vero Global Communication, and you may also find them referred to as Vero Telecom Solutions. We've reviewed one of their products on our YouTube channel before, but until now we've never offered any of their products for sale on our web site at Buy Two Way Radios.

So what caught our attention about the VR-N7500 that made us decide to partner with VGC? For starters, this radio is very unique and innovative.

The combination of a remote display through a smartphone and wireless Bluetooth integration make this a solid choice for anyone looking for a clean, out of site vehicle install. Combine that with a value price. This radio is not perfect, but it's got a lot going for it.

The first thing most people are going to notice about the VR-N7500 is that it's missing a typical display. That's because VGC moved all of the functions that you would normally perform through the radio's display into its smartphone apps, which are available for Android and iOS.

You'll use the app to change channels or add new ones. You can adjust all of the radio settings. There's a FM radio and some type of Morse Code decoder. The main screen of the app is a map that shows your location, and there may be a way to show the location of those you are communicating with. The app even has support for APRS and network channels that take advantage of your smartphone's network connection for Communication.

The app is absolutely core to this radio and is even the way that firmware updates are delivered. Look for more videos from us in the near future going more in depth with these apps.

The Bluetooth® accessory support and integration options are almost as core to this radio as the smartphone app. You don't technically need to use Bluetooth audio with the radio, but eliminating wires makes it a more enjoyable experience.

There are two ways to use Bluetooth audio with the VR-N7500. First is with the optional Bluetooth hand mic. This mic works the same way as the included wired mic, but without the wire. Second, if your car has Bluetooth support built-in, you can have the radio integrate with your vehicle speakers and microphone the way a phone call would. You just need the optional Bluetooth push to talk button accessory so that you have a way to indicate when to transmit. The Bluetooth PTT is battery powered and includes a strap for attaching it to a steering wheel or shifter knob.

The best way to experience this radio is with your smartphone on and accessible, using the Bluetooth hand mic or the car audio with the Bluetooth PTT. This allows you to have the radio connected but stowed out of the way, such as under a seat or even in your trunk.

For core radio features, the VR-N7500 has everything that you'd expect. It's an analog dual band radio supporting the 2 meter and 70 centimeter ham frequency ranges. It offers 50 watts of power on 2 meter and 40 watts on 70 centimeter. It supports a large and undefined number of 16 channel zones.

It is a very solid radio with a fairly thick metal frame. There's no internal speaker - all sound is output through your choice of the included hand mic, your connected smartphone or tablet, or a connected Bluetooth® accessory. The included wired hand mic has a loud speaker and buttons for adjusting the channel or volume. The mic is missing the standard clip attachment that you might be used to, but it's replaced with a strong magnet. That makes it much easier at attach or detach, particularly while driving.

The VGC VR-N7500 includes a mounting bracket, mounting hardware and a power cable. Optional Bluetooth Hand Microphone and Bluetooth Ring Push-to-Talk Button are available separately.

There's a lot to like about this radio, but there are a few things that need to be improved.

​First, there isn't a manual. The app has a non-working link to a manual, so it is expected they plan to have one at some point.

This radio has some really advanced functionality, like location tracking, APRS, network channels, cross band repeat from network to analog. It would be nice if some of these things were documented. Also, the Android app is great - it's clear that's the one they've chosen to develop first because it works great and has tons of features. But unfortunately it isn't available in the Google Play app store, so you have to download and install the app manually. That isn't hard, but the app store would be preferred.

The iOS app is available through the app store, but it is more limited and at the moment is missing some of the advanced functions. This is a new product and the hardware seems well done and complete, but features are still being added to the apps and the firmware.

That said, we are impressed with the VR-N7500 and we think that a lot of hams will love it.

The radio is currently available to ship today. Order it through our web site at Buy Two Way Radios.

It's October, and you know what that means. Autumn leaves, fall weather, and - Oktoberfest! This year, the Fall season also brings falling prices, so we're celebrating with our first annual OktoberHamFest! Celebrate with us at Buy Two Way Radios with these OktoberHamFest deals on amateur two way radios!

Buy a Wouxun KG-UVN1 Dual Band DMR Digital Two Way Radio during our OctoberHamFest Sale and get 10% off plus FREE Shipping!

The Wouxun KG-UVN1 is a 2 meter/70cm DMR digital amateur radio with 3072 channels, 160,000 contacts (yes, that's one hundred sixty thousand) and Wouxun's full color LCD display. It is capable of operation in analog or digital modes, with a 2600mAh battery pack for extended uptime and the rugged durability of a business radio. Read the product page for a full list of features.

It's regularly priced at $159.99. During our Oktoberhamfest, the Wouxun KG-UVN1 is on special for only $143.99! You also get FREE SHIPPING!! Plus, for a limited time, buy a KG-UVN1 and get the programming cable with software, FREE! You can buy your new Wouxun KG-UVN1 here. Offer valid until October 31, 2019 or while supplies last.

Want a great quad band base/mobile ham radio at a great price? The Wouxun KG-UV980P Quad Band Base/Mobile Two Way Radio is it! Plus, get an extra 10% off during our OctoberHamFest Sale!

The KG-UV980P is a 2 meter, 6 meter, 10 meter and 70cm mobile/base station radio with up to 50W on VHF and 40W on UHF. It regularly sells for $299, but during our Oktoberhamfest Sale, you can get it for only $269.99 plus FREE SHIPPING! This offer expires October 31, 2019, and is available only while supply lasts!

The Nagoya NA-701 is a dual band 2m/70cm antenna for your Baofeng UV-5R or Wouxun HT two way radio. The NA-701 is a popular choice among ham radio operators for dual band amateur handheld two way radios. Get one FREE during our OctoberhamFest Sale when you buy a select Wouxun Portable Handheld Two Way Radio!

Of course, there is no purchase limit. This offer expires October 31, 2019 or while supplies last. So why wait? Get yours now!

The following models qualify for a FREE Nagoya antenna:

• Wouxun KG-UV7D Dual Band Two Way Radio
• Wouxun KG-UV8D Dual Band Two Way Radio
• Wouxun KG-UV8D Plus Dual Band Two Way Radio
• Wouxun KG-UV8E Dual Band Two Way Radio
• Wouxun KG-UV9P Dual Band Two Way Radio

Oktoberhamfest at Buy Two Way Radios runs through the month of October and ends October 31, 2019 or until we run out of these products. No rain checks. Questions? Comments? Leave them below.

A few years ago, Wouxun entered the digital radio market with the KG-D901 DMR radio. Now the company is adding a new, improved DMR model to its product line. It's the Wouxun KG-UNV1, and it could just be the next disrupter in the DMR radio world.

This isn't a dinky little digital transceiver on a chip. It's a real, professional grade radio designed for business use, with the power and features to match.

At first glance, the KG-UVN1 looks like a cross between the KG-D901 and a KG-UV9D, with a little of the KG-UV899 keypad thrown in. On closer inspection, it's definitely different from all three. It lacks the bulging curvature of the D901, has a wider horizontal display than the 9D, and is considerably larger than the 899. That's not to say it isn't aesthetically pleasing. On the contrary, it is quite a handsome radio. It just has its own style, and considering its intended functionality, it fits in well.

The KG-UVN1 is a powerful dual band handheld, with a powerful set of features to match. What we have is a 4 watt UHF, 5 watt VHF radio capable of operating in both digital and analog modes. It supports 3,072 channels, 250 zones, 255 receive groups, and 1,024 contacts. it has a full DTMF keypad, programmable buttons, and Wouxun's signature full color LCD display. It features Private Call, Group Call and All Call, Direct Mode and Repeater Mode, Text Messaging in Digital Mode, an ARTS function, and digital voice encryption. It has CTCSS and DCS in analog mode, remote monitor, remote check and remote enable/disable functions.

And, like many import radios, it also has a built-in FM radio and a flashlight. Apparently Wouxun considers these last two as standard features for a commercial grade business radio, because they make it a point to build them into many of their models.

The biggest feature, however, is the number of contacts. It's a huge number. The TYT MD-2017, the TYT UV380, and Anytone AT-D878UV are popular dual band DMR digital radios, each capable of storing over 100,000 contacts. The KG-UVN1 supports one hundred and sixty thousand contacts. This is the most of any radio on the market to date, including the Anytone and TYT models. This is the single greatest advantage of the KG-UVN1 for hams and is why we think this radio could cause some disruption in the amateur arena.

Now, Wouxun did not particularly build the KG-UVN1 for the amateur. This radio was intended for business users. It was designed as a commercial radio, and if you look at Wouxun's web site, you're going to find it advertised with 1,024 contacts and an eight hour recording function.

But not our KG-UVN1. At our request, Wouxun modified the firmware to create an amateur version of this radio with 160,000 contacts, just for hams. To do so, they had to make some room in the radio by eliminating the recording feature. So you don't get the eight hour record time, but that space is dedicated now to contacts.

Why is that important? If you're using the radio for amateur operation, you're going to want to load in all of the contacts for the area or region in which you are using the radios. If you're hitting a wide network of DMR repeaters, you will see the call sign of anyone who is transmitting, right on the radio. There is a global database of contacts online at radioid.net, there are over 130,000 contacts worldwide listed in their database. The kicker? You can load every contact from that database into the KG-UVN1.

But it gets even better. As a bonus, Wouxun has preloaded the radio with these contacts. Yep, that's right. The KG-UVN1 comes pre-loaded with every contact listed in the RadioID.net database. At last count, that was nearly 130,00 contacts, or 128,948 contacts, to be exact.

So, right out of the box, if you buy the amateur edition of the Wouxun KG-UVN1 from Buy Two Way Radios, you're going to have all the contacts in the system, and quite possibly, all the contacts in the world preloaded into the radio, at the time the radio was loaded!

Now, as mentioned, this is a dedicated amateur version of the KG-UVN1. At the time this article was written, this radio is not Part 90 type accepted or approved by the FCC for business use. So if you buy this radio now, what you're going to get is a radio that's locked to the amateur frequencies.

The amateur version of the KG-UVN1 operates on 420 MHz to 450 MHZ UHF and 144 MHz to 148 MHz VHF. Once the radio receives its commercial approval and its FCC ID number, it can be updated for a wider frequency range within the approved specs. So, if you buy it now, you won't be getting a radio that's going to be obsolete in awhile, you're getting a radio that can be updated in the future to open it up to commercial frequencies. At the moment, it will work just fine on the amateur frequencies only.

But then, if you're a licensed amateur radio operator, and you're buying this for amateur use, you really shouldn't need it to operate outside the ham bands anyway. Just sayin'.

Some of the less prominent features are also somewhat interesting. These are all security related. Wouxun considers security and privacy important for business communications, so it added a few extra features to ensure the radio itself is secure for use in the field. These include the ability to set a security password for programming the radio and the ability to hide the menu or selected menu items from the end user. Wouxun also lists a feature called Menu Encryption, although at the time this article was written, it did not seem to actually exist in the list of menu options. It's no deal breaker, and probably not anything most hams would use anyway, but since Wouxun printed it in their manual and on the box, it's worth noting.

The Wouxun KG-UVN1 is powered by a high capacity 2600mAh (19.24Wh) Lithium-ion battery pack. It is similar to the optional high capacity battery pack available for the KG-UV8D, although taller and heavier in weight. It weighs in at 4.41 ounces, compared to the 4.23 ounce battery for the 8D. It does make the radio seem heftier, but it also provides the N1 with substantial uptime on a full charge.

Although the batteries and chargers are different, the KG-UVN1 is still easy to accessorize. it uses an SMA Male antenna connector, so, there are a plethora of OEM and third party antennas available that will work for it. Unlike the MD-2017, which uses a multi-pin connector, The KG-UVN1 uses the Kenwood two pin (K1) style connector commonly found on most import handheld radios such as the Baofeng UV-5R, Wouxun KG-UV8D, and TYT-MD-380. If you already have audio accessories for one or more of these radios, chances are they have this connector and they'll work with this Wouxun. That's definitely a plus for the KG-UVN1.

Durability has never been an issue with Wouxun. This manufacturer produces high quality, business grade radios, and the KG-UVN1 is no exception. This isn't your twenty dollar disposable dual bander. The UVN1 is a professional grade two way radio with the solid, stout look and feel expected of such a device.

Wouxun does understate the weight of this radio. According to the specs in their manual, it's 300 grams, or 10.58 ounces. It's actually over 11 ounces, or 11.71 ounces, to be exact, and that's including the high capacity battery. It may be a stout dual band DMR radio, but it's certainly not a full pounder.

Then there is the price, and that's the best part. For all that's packed into this radio, the Wouxun KG-UVN1 is priced at only $159.99. That's a heck of a deal. It's the same price point as the MD-2017, and significantly less than the Anytone AT-D878UV. All things considered, it's a great price for this radio.

In fact, this radio matches up very well to the MD-2017, but the UVN1 has some advantages that put it on top of the TYT and all the other amateur DMR radios on currently the market. The number of contacts, solid construction, high capacity battery, powerful feature set, compatibility with existing audio accessories and budget friendly price all combine to make the Wouxun KG-UVN1 a DMR Dual Bander for the serious ham.

Want to learn more about the Wouxun KG-UVN1? Listen to an in-depth discussion about this new dual band DMR radio in Episode 137 of The Two Way Radio Show podcast!

Wouxun has a reputation for feature rich, well constructed handheld transceivers at great prices. Models such as the KG-UV8D and KG-UV9D Plus have long been favorites of many hams, particularly for their powerful features, cross-band repeat capability and, of course, the now legendary Wouxun color LCD display. Recently Wouxun announced it is taking two of its popular, classic models, refreshing them into new models and adding more power. These two new radios, Wouxun KG-UV7D and KG-UV9P, are high powered portables, with up to 5 watts on UHF and 7 watts on the VHF band. Now, the new Wouxun KG-UV7D and KG-UV9P high powered portables are here!

Wouxun aimed each model at a specific user, although both can be used by amateur radio operators. According to Wouxun, both radios have the same FCC IDs as their predecessors and use the same programming software. The KG-UV6D accessories are also compatible with the KG-UV7D, and KG-UV9D Plus accessories will also work with the new KG-UV9P.

KG-UV7D
The Wouxun KG-UV7D is the successor to the KG-UV6D, a business grade workhorse of a radio that was Part 90 type accepted for business use. The 7D not only replaces the 6D, it is the same radio, with one exception. It now has 5 watts of power on UHF and 7 watts of power on VHF.

This extra power only enhances the already powerful features carried over from the 6D, such as the 199 programmable memory channels with CTCSS and DSC Scan, priority channel scanning, and 1750 Hz burst tone. the selectable power feature allows the 7D more latitude as well, giving you the option to transmit at high, medium or low power instead of simply in high or low power mode.

Other standard features include VOX support, SOS function, multi-scan mode, busy channel lockout, auto and manual keypad lock, customizable power on display message, English voice guide, FM radio, and a built-in flashlight. It's also quite rugged, as it is IP55 dust and waterproof. After all, it's primarily built for business use. Price- $109.99.

KG-UV9P
The KG-UV9P is the model that is more likely to appeal to hams. It is an amateur radio, and replaces the KG-UV9D Plus. In fact, it is a 9D Plus, with the addition of the same 5 watt UHF and 7 watt VHF power boost given to the KG-UV7D.

Like the 9D Plus, the KG-UV9P has UHF/VHF dual band tranmit, 7 band reception, 999 programmable memory channels, QT/DQT encoding and decoding, DTMF encode/decode and 25KHz/12.5KHz wide/narrow bandwidth selection. It features simultaneous dual band reception and can transmit on one band at the same time it receives on the other!

It also has the now legendary Wouxun color LCD display with five brightness levels and plenty of screen space to display two bands simultaneously. The display alone is a premium feature of this radio, and greatly enhances the overall operating experience.

One of the biggest features of the 9D Plus was the cross-band repeater. The KG-UV9P includes it as well! Other features include multiple scan functionality, priority scan, CTCSS/DCS scan and the ability to scan two bands simultaneously.

Of course, as we all know, hams like to talk. So, operating an amateur radio at higher transmit power for an extended period may require an power source that can adequately handle it, and without losing uptime. No worries. The KG-UV9P includes something really special, a high capacity 3200mAh battery pack! This super sized battery comes standard with the 9P package, which adds even more value to an already feature packed portable! Price- $139.99.

The KG-UV7D and KG-UV9D may be made of the same stuff as their predecessors, but they do add something new to the mix - more power. Both models are now available to ship from our warehouse at Buy Two Way Radios.

With the recent uncertainty surrounding the FCC and import radios, TYT has made a decision to ship all of their radios locked down to the 150-160 MHz VHF and 450-460 MHz UHF ranges.

They actually made these changes a few months ago, and at first "unlocking" the radios to allow use outside of these limited ranges required special unlock software. With the most recent firmware release, however, TYT has made the unlock process much more simple. All of their models can now be unlocked by holding down a key combination while powering on the radios. In this article, we'll show how to unlock the TYT MD-9600 mobile radio, and the MD-380, MD-390, MD-UV380 and MD-2017 handheld radios.

Is your radio locked?

Radios that are locked will display frequencies outside of the 150-160 MHz and 450-460 MHz range as 150.000 or 450.000 when the radio is in frequency mode. For example, if the channel on a locked radio is programmed for 147.300, the display will show 150.000. Once unlocked, the radio will show the correct frequency. A locked radio that has been programmed to frequencies outside of the locked range does not need to be reprogrammed. After being unlocked, the radio will work properly.

A radio will always remember that it has been unlocked, even if the battery or power supply is removed.

Unlocking the TYT MD-9600

The TYT MD-9600 must be running firmware version 6.09 or higher to unlock using these steps. Prior versions will need special unlock software.

• Power the radio on.
• Remove all power to the radio. Note, you must remove vehicle or power supply power - you can't just turn off the radio with the power button.
• Hold down the P1 and P2 buttons on the front of the radio.
• Power up the radio while holding these buttons until the power on tone sounds.
• No notification/confirmation is provided, but the radio is now unlocked.

Unlocking the TYT MD-2017

The TYT MD-2017 must be running firmware version 4.06 or higher to unlock using these steps. Prior versions will need special unlock software.

• Turn the radio OFF.
• On the side of the radio, hold down the top (blue) button and the UP arrow key.
• Turn the radio ON while holding down these buttons.
• No notification/confirmation is provided, but the radio is now unlocked.

Unlocking the TYT MD-380, MD-390, and MD-UV380

The TYT MD-380 or MD-390 must be running firmware version 14.07 or higher to unlock using these steps. The MD-UV380 requires version 18.03 or higher. Prior versions will need special unlock software.

• Turn the radio OFF.
• Hold down side buttons 1 and 2.
• Turn the radio ON while holding down these buttons.
• No notification/confirmation is provided, but the radio is now unlocked.

Why did TYT do this?

Great question, and one that we can't get a clear answer to. Based on our understanding of the FCC rules, TYT should be able to ship the radios as long as their supported range is within what is allowed on the grant from the FCC. For the MD-2017, for example, the grant shows 136-174 MHz and 406.1-480 MHz. I can only assume that this has been done out of an overabundance of caution. It would be understandable if they were unsure about how the FCC will be enforcing the rules, and don't want to take any risks at all. In the meantime, unfortunately, customers are confused and left with products that look to be defective, although they are actually operating as designed.

When the Leixen VV-898 first showed up on the market, many hams suggested turning it in a go-box. Apparently Leixen liked this idea, because that's exactly what they did. The result? Leixen created the VV-898P and VV-898SP Mobile Backpack Radios. This unique product line consists of either a 10 watt VV-898 or 25 watt VV-898S unit mounted in an enclosure with everything needed to function as a portable radio capable of instant-on operation virtually anytime, anywhere.

In this video, Rick introduces these mobile backpack radios and tells you what they are designed to do. Buy Two Way Radios is an authorized Leixen dealer.

Want more videos? Browse our video blog and subscribe to our YouTube channel!

Not long ago, amateur radio hobbyists traditionally operated in analog mode. Then the digital age arrived, and it opened up a whole new mode of operation for hams. Initially, few amateurs experimented with digital technology. Of course, there was a learning curve, but it was primarily due to cost. Going digital was expensive.

Then, everything changed. The growing popularity of the DMR standard and the introduction of low priced import DMR radios lowered the barrier to entry. Digital radio on the amateur bands began to thrive. Now, more amateur enthusiasts are going digital, either on the side or all the way.

Yet for many hams, the world of DMR is still unfamiliar territory, and for some, the migration from analog to digital operation can be a challenge. There are questions. How do I get started in digital radio? What equipment do I need? How much does a basic setup cost? How can I get into DMR at minimal cost?

Well, just in case you were wondering, we're glad you asked, because we now have the answer:

DMR Digital Radio Bundles!

Buy Two Way Radios just created digital radio starter kits exclusively for hams, and at very affordable prices. These bundle kits are made for the ham who wants to go digital but either doesn't know where to begin or simply wants to avoid the hassle of shopping around and just Get On The Air. Two bundles are currently available.

TYT MD-9600 DMR Digital Ham Radio Base Station Kit
The Digital DMR Ham Radio Base Station Kit takes the popular TYT MD-9600 dual bander and turns it into a bona fide digital base station. The complete bundle contains everything needed for desktop operation in your ham shack, including the TYT MD-9600 Dual Band Base/Mobile DMR Radio, a TH-1380 30A Switching Power Supply, a Tram 1185 dual band UHF/VHF mag mount antenna, an MD-9600 programming cable, and software. This bundle was briefly offered as part of a promotion in 2017 and was incredibly popular. Due to popular demand, we decided to make it a permanent bundle and offer it at a substantial discount. Price: $339.99.

TYT Digital Ham Shack Mega Bundle
The TYT Digital Ham Shack Mega Bundle is exactly what the name implies. Many hams would like to go all digital, but some have questions about which products to pair. this is the same bundle as the base station kit, but with the addition of an MD-UV380 dual band DMR portable handheld. Simply put, it's basically an instant DMR ham shack kit. The complete Mega bundle includes a TYT MD-9600 Dual Band Base/Mobile DMR Radio, a TYT MD-UV380 Dual Band DMR Digital Handheld Radio, a TYT-TH-1380 30A Switching Power Supply, a Tram 1185 Dual Band Magnet Antenna, programming cables for both radios, and software for each model. As the product description says, "Why settle for half a ham shack when you can go digital all the way? With the TYT Digital Ham Shack Mega Bundle, you can!" it's also a great deal. Price: $449.99

No doubt both of these kits offer popular ham radios at very good buys. But it's not just about saving money. These are great kits for a new ham who just wants to get started in DMR and for an old ham who wants to upgrade from analog to digital radio and experiment with something new. They are also good, economical way for an amateur radio club to offer DMR training and events to its members, such as digital operations on field days.

Want to know more about these DMR bundles? Give us a call or leave us a comment below!